Luka was a nightmare to potty train. He went in his crate which was surprising because everyone told me that dogs don't like to soil their beds. Make sure the crate is the proper size and if its large to section it off. You only want it big enough for her to stand up in and turn around. Anymore space and she will def potty in it.
Puppies get distracted easily so it takes some effort to get them to use the bathroom. I used to put Luka on a lead and walk around till he would go which prevented accidents in his crate.
As for the waking you up my two wake me up no later than 7 am no matter what day. They're ready to play regardless. Make sure you're givin her some play time and socialization in the am it will help her not be so restless in her crate while you're gone.
I can't remember if it was another thread you posted or not but I wouldn't let her out everytime she whines or she will expect that when she whines she gets free. I personally don't leave luka in his crate if I'm home even when he was a puppy so I didn't have too hard of a time with it. Good luck!